Developing Schematics and Models to Understand the Ecology of Creative Sector

Abstract

Borrowing the concept of ecology from biology, this paper argues that problem-solving in the arts and creative sector can be facilitated by visual mapping tools that allow us to better understand the dynamic relationships between nodes of stakeholder interest and activity. We discuss the underlying concepts, benefits, and utility of this approach, drawing on the literature, our own research processes, and our experiences working with university students. We argue that concept modeling dovetails with visual mapping techniques, using digital mind mapping and concept mapping applications, to provide a visual language for holistically communicating the complexly interconnected ecology of creative sector relationships. Visual mapping, which complements rather than replaces textual analysis, facilitates a holistic and systemic approach to policy design and management strategy that mirrors both the rhizomatic social ecology of the creative sector and the visuality intrinsic to the creative process.